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What Is an Epic?

What is an epic?

An epic is a narrative—usually a long poem—which focuses on a hero and his / her adventurous quest. One example, from ancient times, is The Odyssey.

Homer was a great writer of ancient Greek epics. He made Ulysses (Odysseus)—his epic hero (the main protagonist of the story) in The Odyssey—a human being (not a god or a demi-god) who possesses outstanding characteristics.

Ulysses (Odysseus)—whose efforts to reach home, after the Trojan War, took a decade—had to endure all kinds of temptations (like the Sirens) and really awful situations which he had to resist. Odysseus often had assistance, however—from a guide like Circe—to help him survive one crisis after another.

Ulysses’ character traits are not just personally admirable, they also serve as an example to others. What are some of the characteristics of an epic hero?

Excels not just in skills but also in strength, courage and loyalty

Is willing to embark on a difficult quest in order to achieve an important goal

Succeeds in war (and also adventure) despite being tested over and over and over again